Category: Singapore Food Haven

5 Reunion Dinner Restaurants That Your In-Laws Will Absolutely Love

It’s that time of the year again. Well, almost.

A time where the sounds of crackling fireworks and booming drums can be heard from miles away.

A time where streets are decked with a cascade of flamboyant lights and red couplets.

A time where oranges… You get the picture.

Chinese New Year is barely a month away and it’s time to usher in the festive cheer. Of course, ‘tis the season of celebration of all things home, family, and friends. Nowhere is this seen more clearly than in the annual tradition of Reunion Dinners.

Times are changing and Singaporeans are opting for newer choices to host their reunion dinners. Here are 5 carefully curated selections of Chinese Restaurants, each catering to a specific type of customers while offering a totally novel experience.

1. Hai Tien Lo

The epitome of traditional Cantonese dining, award-winning Hai Tien Lo remains one of the best Chinese restaurants in Singapore. Oozing class and grandeur with majestic red and gold themed elements, it feels like you are stepping in to the Forbidden Palace. Serving a range of impressive and quality fare ranging from the Roasted Barbecued Suckling Pig to handcrafted Dim Sum dishes, Hai Tien Lo is the ideal place to ring in the auspicious season.

Location: #03-00, Pan Pacific Hotel Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:30pm – 10:30pm

2. Chui Huay Lim

Tucked at the corner of Newton Circus, don’t underestimate its rather obscure location. You’ll be wondering why you didn’t make a reservation. Boasting a history of more than 169 years, Chui Huay Lim specializes in Teochew cuisine, offering over 150 dishes of contemporary excellence and authenticity at its finest. Savour to delicious Pork Trotter Jelly, Braised Goose and Teochew Steamed Pomfret as you bask in the marvelous history of this quaint establishment.

Location: #01-02, Chui Huay Lim Club, 190 Keng Lee Rd, Singapore 308409
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:00pm – 11:00pm

3. Jing Hua Xiao Chi

Tired of all the glamour and formalities of a traditional reunion dinner? Try Jing Hua Xiao Chi for a simple one. Although there are 2 other venues situated at Neil Road and Rochor Road, the ideal location to host your dinner is the branch at Orchard Road. Combining a rich and welcoming interior while retaining its original heritage, Jing Hua Xiao Chi does not forget its roots as a small shophouse and remains dedicated to serving traditional-style Xiao Chi dishes. Be sure to indulge in their signature Xiao Long Baos, Sweet Osmanthus Flower Rice Ball, and Red Bean Pancake.

Location: #B1-04/05, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238871
Dinner Hours: Daily: 5:30pm – 10:00pm

4. Chopsuey Café

This one’s for the hipster families and friends. Serving up Chinese-fusion food in a beautiful colonial-style environment at the particularly winsome Dempsey Hill, Chopsuey Café is the brainchild of PS Café’s first foray into Chinese cuisine. An Instagrammer’s heaven typified by aesthetically eye-catching dishes like the the Flakey Char Siew Puff, Chicken Rice Balls, and Crispy Orange Beef, you’ll be thinking twice about eating these wonderfully plated creations.

Location: #01-23, 10 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247700
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:30pm – 12:00 am

5. Mouth Restaurant

One can always count on something familiar. For a no-frills experience and for the acquiescent who are nonchalant about where to eat, Mouth Restaurant is the classic choice due to its household name. Perhaps, to spice it up with a “Chinese-feel”, try the one at China Square Central in Chinatown, for obvious reasons. Dive in to the instantly recognizable and legendary Baked Salted Egg Yolk Bun, as well as other mouth-watering selections like the Pipa Prawns.

Location: #01-61, China Square Central South Bridge Court Shop House, 22 Cross Street, Singapore 048421
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:00pm – 11:00pm

So what are you waiting for? Hurry up and place those reservations!

And tell us: Where else would you go for your reunion dinners?

Featured image credits: Amari

FORT By Maison Ikkoku – An Exquisite 4 Course CNY Menu With A Twist

I could hardly contain my excitement when I was invited to FORT by Maison Ikkoku to savour its latest Four-Course Chinese New Year Menu, which was carefully whipped up and conceptualised by Executive Chef and Head Mixologist, Ethan Leslie Leong. Available from 1 Jan – 29 Feb 2016, the 4-course menu, set at $48++ per person, and an additional $40++ for four unique cocktails, boasts 4 dish that are named after auspicious Chinese wishes.

Having stepped foot to the newly-minted Pinacotheque De Paris at the historical site of Fort Canning Hill for the first time, I was immediately enchanted by FORT’s 30-seater restaurant bar. The place was adorned with luxurious velvet curtains, copper pipes & Edison filament bulbs, creating an ambience that epitomises both modern chic and ancient industrial.

Four-Course Chinese New Year Menu at FORT by Maison Ikkoku

Starting the prosperous dining journey was the 招财进宝 (Joyous Treasure): a delectable starter of pan-seared Hokkaido scallop, heaps of seaweed and a generous amount of golden roe, sprinkled all over with edible gold flakes. This was paired with喜气洋洋 (Jubilant Festivity), a sake infused with fragrant lemongrass that whets my appetite for the upcoming dish.

Second in the menu was the 好事连连 (Bountiful Harvest), a reinterpretation of the classic Roast Goose. This is certainly one of my favourites, being an avid Roast Goose fan. The puree, made using ingredients such as lotus, beet, sweet potatoes and kaffir lime, complements the Roast Goose so perfectly, both in terms of the palate and sight. This was paired with a visually stunning cocktail, 珠光寶氣 (Bejewelled Radiance), which was made with sparkling bubbly and floating daisy caviar.

Moving on to the mains, the auspiciously named 年年有余 (Sea of Fortune), features a succulent Salmon steak that was cooked to perfection. Presented on a bed of sweet, tart green apple, grapefruit and passion fruit, the dish was perfectly balanced with a copious dollop of salmon roe. The cocktail pairing was the carefully concocted 招財進寶 (Opulent Prosperity), made specially in-house with citrus sugar, whiskey and bitters.

The 金玉满堂 (Golden Royale) is such an adorable dessert that I couldn’t help falling in love with. Bursting with zesty and citrus aroma, this sorbet was served alongside frozen Kumquats. As I savoured the tantalising flavours and observed with fascination the gold colour of the dessert, I came to a realisation that the dish was so aptly named. I was then treated to a beautiful sight when the mixologist concocted 歩歩高升 (Passion Abundance), an earthy drink made with a base of spiced rum, a dash of Himalayan salt, a hint of caramel and passion fruit, that was served with heaps of dry ice, for that added drama.

Signature Ala Carte Dishes at FORT by Maison Ikkoku

Apart from the festive menu, I was kindly treated to one of its signature dishes from the ala carte menu – The Fort (4 pcs S$18++ / 8 pcs S$28++), which was a beautifully created spicy maguro hand-roll.

For Omakase Lovers

In addition, since 1 December 2015, FORT by Maison Ikkoku has launched their 12-course Omakase for just S$68++ per person. Diners will be taken through a gastronomical journey with dishes using the freshest ingredients presented in a form that brings out the best in them. Given the delightful experience with the 4-course menu, I would certainly visit Fort again, for the Omakase.

FORT by Maison Ikkoku

Address: Pinacotheque De Paris, 5 Cox Terrace, Fort Canning Hill, S(179620)

Telephone: +65 6336 0507

Opening Hours: Daily 4P.M till Late

Getting There:

• Nearest MRT Station -Dhoby Ghaut (5 – 8 minute walk from Park Mall towards Fort Canning Park)
• Nearest Car Park
Car Park B, Fort Canning Park (Free parking after 5pm)
• Nearest Bus Station
04223 – Old Hill Street Police Station
(5 minute walk up the stairs leading to Fort Canning Park)

This article is written by Yi Shiean (@yishiean), our brand ambassador for Discover SG. We are looking for more ambassadors to join us, so email us at [email protected] to find out more!

Top 5 Food To Eat When In JB

Thinking about what to eat in JB? Here’s a list of the top 5 food you should try out on your next trip to JB.

1. Mee Rebus

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Having a hard time finding a delicious plate of Mee Rebus in Singapore? Fret not! As most of the Mee Rebus served in JB are of pretty decent standard. Served in a spicy yet sweet gravy, who can resists the temptation of Mee Rebus on your next venture to JB. Highly recommended on the list is Mee Rebus Haji Wahid at Angsana Plaza with its thick and tasty gravy which had long been a favorite among locals.

2. Bak Kut Teh

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A dish originally from Klang in Selangor, Malaysia. Bak Kut Teh now has its presence all over Malaysia. A lot of people in JB would claim that they know where is the best Bak Kut Teh around JB, however, the best way would be to try it yourself.

3. Kuey Teow Kia

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There is no lack of Kuey Teow Kia in JB. There is actually quite a few well known Kuey Teow Kia spot near the JB immigration checkpoint. Now you have one more reason to cross the causeway, other than getting your petrol pumped (sarcasm intended).

Also read: TheLorry Looks To Drive Into Southeast Asian Markets With US$1.5M In Their Truck

4. Dim Sum

Let’s be honest, going for a Dim Sum yumcha is just too expensive in Singapore. With the exchange rate at one dollar to three ringgit, there’s now more reason you can drag your friend along to JB for that Dim Sum yumcha you’ve been talking about.

5. Seafood Dinner

Last but not least on our top 5 is of course a seafood dinner in JB. With seafood fresh from the sea at an affordable price, it is no surprise that Singaporeans often flock to JB for seafood during the weekend. A few places on recommendation are restaurants around Gelang Patah, Taman Laguna or Kukup.

Quickly get your dollar changed and head out to JB and taste it yourself.

Cover photo by IRDA

Images: Instagram

Also read: S’pore’s Minister Chan Chun Sing’s First Blog Post – “No One Owes Us A Living.”

Crystal Jade – The Place To Get Salted Egg Yolk And Chilli Crab Xiao Long Bao!

The rise of flavoured soup dumplings

Think xiao long bao and Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao comes to mind. More widely known for the unlimited servings of xiao long baos, Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao has recently introduced an updated menu for its 25^th anniversary this year.

Steamed Assorted Flavours Xiao Long Bao, $10.80 for 4

What immediately caught our eye was the multi coloured Steamed Assorted Flavours Xiao Long Bao, $10.80. Since we couldn’t decide on the flavour – Salted Egg Yolk, Chilli Crab, Ginseng or Vegetable, the easiest solution was to get them all!

The orange coloured Salted Egg Yolk Xiao Long Bao was flavourful and would delight salted egg lovers. Nonetheless, we felt that a more savoury broth in the Xiao Long Bao would have made the dish complete.

The red coloured Chilli Crab Xiao Long Bao was juicy and succulent, and our tastebuds were jolted wide awake by the intense and overwhelming chilli crab flavour. Sinful as it tasted, we craved for more of this crabby goodness.

Biting into the white coloured Vegetable Xiao Long Bao, we could taste the distinct flavour of leeks (韭菜) calming our taste buds, a welcome contrast to the fiery aggressiveness of chilli crab.

Finally, the curious looking green coloured Ginseng Xiao Long Bao may invoke fears of strong herbal aftertaste. However, we were pleasantly delighted at how the unique combination of ginseng and the savoury broth in the Xiao Long Bao gave rise to a soothing and harmonious gastronomic experience. The balance was just right, neither too mild nor overwhelming. This was definitely our favourite.

Tofu with Century Egg & Pork Floss, $6.80

Having tried this dish at many different restaurants, we assumed it would be another average experience and had no expectations. How wrong we were.

The seasoning was well prepared and the sesame oil provided a deliciously fragrant aroma. Thinly sliced and silky smooth, the tofu melted in our mouths. The addition of pork floss created a unique texture. Finish this dish quick, as the pork floss soaks up the yummy soy sauce, leading to an overwhelming salty taste which overwhelmed our taste buds.

Red Bean Pastries Pancakes, $5.80

For desserts, we ordered the Red Bean Pancake. The generous filling of red bean paste oozed out and we liked how the pancake was not too oily. It was a great end to a meal. We would definitely head back to Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao to try the other items on the new menu!

Promotion

Spend a minimum of $30 on a la carte items, and
Enjoy 50% off Salted Egg Yolk Xiao Long Bao

Only at Vivocity
Until 29 January 2016

Outlets & Opening Hours

Jurong Point JP2 #03-96
1130am to 10pm (Monday to Friday)
11am to 10pm (Saturday, Sunday & PH)
(Reservation for weekdays only, exclude eve of PH & PH)

Blk 470, Toa Payoh Lor 6, #01-70
11am to 10pm (Daily)
(No reservation allowed)

Vivocity, #01-52
1130am to 10pm (Monday to Friday)
11am to 10pm (Saturday, Sunday & PH)
(Reservation for weekdays only, exclude eve of PH & PH)

Bugis Junction, B1-04A
11am to 10pm (Daily)
(No reservation allowed)

Great World City, #02-43
11am to 10pm (Daily)
(No reservation allowed)

Holland Avenue 241
11am to 10pm (Daily)

Ngee Ann City, #04-27
1130am to 1030pm (Monday to Friday)
11am to 1030pm (Saturday)
10am to 1030pm (Sunday & PH)
(Reservation for Monday to Thursday only, excluding eve of PH & PH)

This post is written by Kaylene Tan (@kaylene.tan), Discover SG’s brand ambassador. We are looking for more brand ambassadors to grow our brands with. Email us at [email protected] to be our pioneer batch of Discover SG Brand Ambassadors, just like Kaylene!

Top 7 Things To Do At Sunset Way – One Of Singapore’s Hidden Neighbourhoods!

Tucked away in the west, the quiet estate of Sunset Way is Clementi’s best kept secret. Most of us might not even know of its existence!

But if you happen to stay in the vicinity, or feel like exploring a relatively unpopular place, you’d soon realize that there are actually quite a number of things you can do there.

Here are 7 things for you to check out the next you are in the area:

1. Café hop in the most unassuming of locations

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Spice up your Instagram feed with these instaworthy desserts! One cafe you should visit is Buttercake n Cream, famed for their chocolate pudding and other homemade desserts. Order a cuppa from The Tiny Roaster a few doors down, which brews the much raved about coffee. Over at Drips Baker’s Playground, get tempted by their glass display of pretty quiches and tarts.

2. Brunch: oriental-­‐style

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Alternatively, go for the wide variety of dimsum available at Foodpark. They come at pocket-­‐friendly prices, and definitely give the salted egg custard buns a try!

3. Go for old school cakes and pastries

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For handmade cakes and pastries, be sure not to miss Balmoral Bakery with its brick red exterior. Their chicken pies and swiss rolls are a hit with all ages!

4. Treat yourself to sinful desserts

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Not many know this, but The Daily Scoop opened their first outlet here at Sunset Way. Indulge in a scoop of homemade ice cream, which tastes even better on top of a waffle!

5. Take a good walk and enjoy a rare moment of tranquility

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So what do you do after all the good food? Take a stroll along the Ulu Pandan Park Connector and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings. You may even catch a glimpse of kingfishers and komodo dragons if you’re lucky.

6. Explore the abandoned railway track

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Trek this hidden railroad as an alternative to the one at Bukit Timah. There’s just something satisfying about hearing gravel crunch beneath your feet. Remember to bring along mosquito repellant though, you have been warned!

7. Take an #OOTD

With foliage that adds a different dimension to your photos and the railway bridge as a unique backdrop, be sure to pose for a picture. What better way to commemorate your visit to Sunset than with an #ootd!

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Ready to explore Sunset Way?

Sunset Way is accessible via bus services 52, 154 and 184 from the bus stop at Clementi MRT Station’s Exit B. If you do happen to be nearby, share your adventures with us!

Bonus: Shop for pet supplies

For the animal-­‐lovers and pet-­‐owners out there, stock up on your pet supplies here. Also, the pet clinics in the area allow you to swoon over cute little animals!

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This article is written by Samanthan Chua.

7 After Dinner Hang Out Spots To Discover With Your Best Friend In Serangoon And Kovan!

There has been a surge of posts dedicated to dining places in the Serangoon and Kovan region as of late, and it is no surprise why.

Over the past 5 years, the area has been growing tremendously with cafes and restaurants to cater to every taste palette. From the established Ah Seah Teochew Porridge at its new Teck Chye Terrace location to the Nakhon Kitchen at Hougang Street 21, famous for its notoriously long queues, one will always be spoilt for choice when choosing to dine in this region.

The chore here always comes after dinner – where shall we go next?

Gone were the days where the only option diners had was Selegie Soya Milk along Upper Serangoon Road. There are now plenty of hang out spot that diners can go to hang out at that offers both affordable yet delicious choices. Here are 7 handpicked just for you:

1. Nunsongyee Korean Dessert Café

Tucked away in a corner of the Serangoon Gardens Estate is Nunsongyee, a Korean dessert café that specializes in serving BingSu – a popular Korean dessert made up of milk shavings and various ingredients. Nunsongyee undoubtedly serves one of the best BingSu’s here in Singapore, with its fine and fluffy shaved ice and generous toppings that aren’t too sweet to digest.

All in all it gives a very nice and refreshing sensation when consumed. There are 2 ranges of Bingsu served here – Snowflake Bingsu ($12.90 – $15.90) and Premium Bingsu ($18.90), which in all honesty is priced considerably high compared to other Bingsu outlets here. However, for the quality and ambience you’re getting, I think it’s well worth it.

Address: 45 Burghley Drive #01-04 Singapore 559022

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 22:00

Closed: Mondays

2. Chillax Café

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What’s a list of places to hang out at without Chillax Café? Located in Serangoon Gardens along Maju Avenue, Chillax Café definitely provides its customers a location to just chill out with its warm ambience, soulful music and welcoming interior design.

Their recently expanded menu offers a range of choices for customers to wind down and relax – from desserts that satisfies any sweet tooth to a range of beers, ciders and wines, this café certainly knows how to make one feel comfortable and at ease.

For the more adventurous, do try the Adult Milo Godzilla ($15) that mixes both Vodka and Milo into one delicious yet relatively potent serving, and may really leave your friends wondering how you got drunk on Milo Dinosaur.

Address: 28 Maju Avenue, Singapore 556698

Opening Hours:

Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 – 00:00

Friday – Saturday: 11:00 – 02:00

3. Dessert Bowl

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Durian lovers, this one’s for you. Another hidden gem in Serangoon Gardens is Dessert Bowl, a store specializing in your typical Hong Kong desserts.

The store is well known for their rich and delicious durian desserts that will have you coming back for more. A personal favorite is their durian mousse ($5) – a thick, creamy and flavorful bowl of goodness topped with real durian flesh that could well be a good substitute for the king of fruits itself.

For those of you that flinch at the slightest thought of durians, do not worry. Dessert Bowl is also well known for its mango dishes, especially its Mango Mousse with Pomelo Toppings ($4.50) and its Aiyu Mango ($4.20) that is extremely refreshing. The tiny space does get really crowded and noisy during peak hours, and getting a table especially for large groups may be a rather long wait. It’s worth it though, I promise.

Address: 80A Serangoon Garden Way Singapore 555976

Opening Hours:

Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 – 2230

Friday – Saturday: 13:00 – 00:00

Closed: Mondays

4. Lickers

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Of all the dining spots mentioned, Lickers is definitely the newest player in the block.

Located in the heart of Lorong Ah Soo, Lickers is definitely a good place to have after dinner desserts. The store makes their delicious ice cream in house daily with freshly supplied ingredients, and they offer their own unique range of flavors in addition to the popular favorites like Earl Grey, Vanilla Bean and Dark Chocolate. Oh and be sure to also try out the new flavors that the store comes out with every once in a while!

Address: Block 124 Hougang Avenue 1, #01-1446, Singapore 530124

Opening Hours:

Tuesday – Thursday: 13:00 – 22:00

Friday – Sunday: 12:00 – 23:00

5. Nectars and Vine

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Located comfortably between Kovan and Serangoon MRT is Nectars and Vine, a retail and wholesale store along Upper Serangoon Road that offers a wide selection of imported bottled beers and good wine at very reasonable prices.

As it opens till 1am every night, Nectars and Vine is arguably one of the best places to hang out at with friends after a long day of work. Its spacious and inviting atmosphere makes it an especially great place for large groups to hang out at. The only downside would be that they don’t serve food to munch on while downing the drinks, apart from the usual convenience store snacks like potato chips and peanuts that are on display.

Address: 752 Upper Serangoon Road Singapore 534623

Opening Hours:

Sunday – Friday: 14:00 – 01:00

Saturday: 14:00 – 02:00a

6. Saturday House

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Saturday House, located slightly out of the Kovan and Serangoon region, managed to bag a spot on our list simply because it offers good food and cheap beer, a combination you can never go wrong with. Glazed with a fusion of marmite and honey, Saturday House’s marmite mid joint wings is deliciously tasteful and crispy, and will certainly have you coming back for more.

Getting here by public transport is pretty easy – Bus 80 from Kovan MRT and Buses 22, 43 or 70 from Serangoon MRT gets you here in a jiffy. It gets extremely cooling here once the sun sets with the occasional gusts of wind from the evening breeze, this really is a great place to enjoy and sumptuous meal with a bottle of refreshing beer along with the company of your friends.

Address: 339 Upper Paya Lebar Road Singapore 534953

Opening Hours:

Sunday to Thursdays: 1130 – 2300

Fridays and Saturdays: 1130 – 0000

7. Hatter Street

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And what’s a list of after dinner hang out spots without Hatter’s Street?

Located right beside the famous Nakhon Kitchen, Hatter Street has proven to be a neighborhood favorite amongst residents here. The Alice in Wonderland inspired café serves possibly some of the best waffles in the entire country. Ask their long queue of patrons and I’m sure they will agree. Served piping hot and topped with an ice cream flavor of your choice, these waffles will definitely have you coming back for more. Their other desserts are pretty popular as well, and are well worth the queue, especially if you patronize the store on a weekend night.

Address: 212 Hougang Street 21 #01-333 Singapore 530212

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 13:00 – 22:00

Closed: Mondays

Are there any other places that we should include in this list? Let us know on our Facebook page!

5 Michelin-Star Worthy Singapore Restaurants You Need To Bookmark And Visit In 2016!

Of the many exciting news in Singapore to look out for this year, the biggest buzz is unravelling in the food scene. Budding food journalists and zealous foodies should look forward to Singapore’s edition of the Michelin Guide, due to be launched in the third quarter of this year. The synonymous French Tyre company which introduced gastronomic guides to the culinary world for over a century is finally arriving on our sunny shores.

Michelin reviewers (commonly called “inspectors”) award Michelin Stars to a select few restaurants, ranging from 0 – 3 stars based on establishment excellence. The acquisition or loss of a star may have colossal effects on the success of a restaurant.

Think you have what it takes to be a food critic? Want to earn your I-said-it-first bragging rights? Begin your foodspiration journey with us as we showcase Singapore’s finest restaurants that serve up the best in our dynamic culinary scene.

1. Restaurant Andre

Heralded as the best restaurant in Singapore since its inception in 2010, multi-award winning Restaurant Andre is also among the top 50 restaurants in Asia. Versed for its creative and inventive take on French Cuisine, Chef Andre Chiang and his team’s eclectic menu serves up sophistication and artisanal love.

Address: Restaurant Andre, 41 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089855

Contact: 6534 8880

Opening Hours: Lunch slots available between 12:00pm – 1:15pm on Wednesday and Friday only

Dinner slots: Available between 7:00pm – 8:00pm from Tuesday – Sunday

Closed: Mondays and Public Holidays

2. Iggy’s

Don’t confuse this with pop star Iggy Azalea’s eponymous album. Owner and chef/sommelier Ignatius Chan’s aesthetically outstanding restaurant does not follow a particular style of cuisine, but instead serves a fusion from different European nations with Asian twists. Deliciously exclusive, every item on the menu is a memorable highlight of art and taste.

Address: Iggy’s, The Hilton Hotel, Level 3, 581 Orchard Road, Singapore 238883

Contact: 6732 2234

Opening Hours: Lunch slots available between 12:00pm – 1:30pm from Monday – Friday

Dinner slots: Available between 7:00pm – 9:30pm from Monday – Saturday

Closed on Sundays

3. Gordon Grill

Proclaimed by many as one of the best restaurants to serve the finest steaks and Continental cuisine in Singapore, Gordon Grill has built a phenomenal reputation and has established itself as a must-try food institution.

Witness the dying tradition of a meat trolley personally wheeled to your table and relive the childlike joy as your eyes feast on chefs slicing meat in graceful fashion before being plated.

Address: Gordon Grill, Goodwood Park Hotel, GF, 22 Scotts Road, Singapore 228221

Contact: 6730 1744

Opening Hours: Lunch slots available between 12:00pm – 2:30pm daily

Dinner slots: Available between 7:00pm – 10:30pm daily

4. Waku Ghin

Recently ranked 39^th on the coveted ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ list, Waku Ghin is not your traditional Japanese restaurant. Enjoy a world-class dining experience with the stunning view of Singapore’s skyline with a smorgasbord of delectable and meticulously detailed dishes.

Lest you forget, be sure to partake in the menu’s Sake selection presided by Chef Tetsuya, the first person appointed Sake Ambassador outside of Japan.

Address: Waku Ghin, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, #02-02, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956

Contact: 6688 8507

Opening Hours: Lunch slots unavailable, Dinner slots available between 6:00pm – 8:30pm daily

5. JAAN

Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘bowl’, JAAN is an internationally recognized French restaurant that serves up a harmonious menu of quality ingredients. If the marvellous interior that features a magnificent crystal chandelier that spans the entire ceiling not impressive enough for you, feast on Epicurean delights with a host of multidimensional tastes and textures that are sure to make you salivate.

Address: JAAN, Swissotel The Stamford, Level 70, Equinox Complex, 2 Stamford Road, Singapore 178882

Contact: 68373322

Opening Hours: Lunch slots available between 12:00pm – 2:00pm from Monday – Saturday

Dinner slots: Available between 7:00pm – 10:00pm from Monday – Saturday

Closed: Sundays and Public Holidays

Give your tummy the “atas” treatment and uncover the inner food critic within you. Which do you think are the best Michelin-worthy restaurants in Singapore?

Written By: Moses Xiao

Featured Image Credit: oregonlive

7 Best Non-Local Cuisines Under S$10 You Can Find In The CBD

If you’re working in Singapore’s CBD, you would have experienced the bittersweet feeling that floods you when lunch hour arrives. Your growling tummy has been waiting all morning for food, but you secretly crave something other than typical local dishes like hokkien mee or chicken rice – you want something different. 

Fear not, for we have collated 6 different types of cuisines in various CBD hawker centres (and a bonus Italian store at the end!) that you can try during your next lunch break. And don’t worry, they won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

1. Mamacitas @ Lau Pa Sat or Amoy Street Food Centre (Costa Rican food)

If you’re working in the Tanjong Pagar or Raffles Place area, chances are you already know about or have tried Mamacitas. But their store is definitely unique enough to deserve another mention!

Since 2012, Costa Rican owner Ms Cindy Castro Vega has been serving up traditional Costa Rican cuisine such as beef burritos ($6.90), crispy taco bowls ($7.90, pictured), chicken fajitas ($6.80) and their signature dish, arroz con mariscos (seafood fried rice, $6.80).

And remember, all these prices include a side of rice and stewed potatoes! So trust us when we say a meal at Mamacitas is value for money.

And where else in Singapore can you get a generous topping of avocado for just $1? 😉

2. A Noodle Story @ Amoy Street Food Centre (Japanese/Hong Kong noodles)

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Run by 2 Shatec-trained chefs who have worked for top restaurants like Iggy’s, A Noodle Story is dedicated to serving gourmet noodles at affordable prices.

Coming in 3 different sizes ($5.50, $6.50 and $7.50), their Singapore Style Ramen is an ingenious fusion of HK style wonton noodles and Japanese ramen.

Dig into a delectable bowl of chinese egg noodles, pork cha-su, hot spring egg, HK style wontons and potato prawn fritters. And don’t slurp up the accompanying bowl of pork broth too quickly!

Whilst waiting for your order, take a peek into the kitchen: A Noodle Story uses unique cooking techniques such as an immersion circulator for precision cooking of the eggs and cha-su.

ADDRESS

Amoy Street Food Centre
7 Maxwell Road
#01-39
Singapore 069111

OPENING HOURS

11.15am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 7.30pm (Mon-Fri)
10.30am – 2.00pm (Sat)
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

3. Soi 55 @ Golden Shoe Food Centre (Thai drinks)

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We really have to hand it to this young couple for bringing another treasured piece of Thailand’s food/drink scene to Singapore.

Soi 55 serves famous Thai drinks such as Thai Milk Tea, Thai Milk Coffee, Thai Rose Milk Tea and Thai Green Milk Tea at very affordable prices (Hot for $2.30, Cold for $2.50). They are also well-praised for taking it easy on the milk, sugar and ice, thus creating the perfect balance.

Top ups of sago, red ruby and pearls are available (50c each) to add some texture and childhood nostalgia.

ADDRESS

50 Market Street
Golden Shoe Food Centre#02-19,, Singapore 048940

OPENING HOURS

8:30am – 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)
Closed on Sat and Sun

4. Taqueria @ Golden Shoe Food Centre (Mexican tacos)

Cheap. Halal. Mexican. Tacos.

Need we say more? 😉

If you’re feeling peckish, opt for an individual taco – you can choose from chicken ($2.50), breaded fish ($3), prawns ($3.50) and grilled steak ($4).

Each taco come with a generous serving of pico de gallo (a Mexican topping of diced tomatoes, onions and cilantro) and are wrapped in soft tortillas that are handmade every morning with love. The considerate owners even provide plastic gloves for a hygienic eating experience.

a $12 set of all four variations is available for those looking for a complete meal. What’s more, you get free mild or hot salsa AND guacamole!

ADDRESS

50 Market Street
Golden Shoe Food Centre #03-29,
Singapore 048940

OPENING HOURS

11.30am – 2pm (Mon-Fri)
Closed on Sat and Sun

5. Fork N’ Fingers @ Chinatown Complex (Japanese Izakaya-style bites)

Located in one of Chinatown’s most famous eating hubs, Fork N’ Fingers is a  Japanese store selling izakaya-style food (that goes perfectly with #6 on this list!)

If you’re looking for something heartier, dig into a bowl of Oden – a mild japanese stew of shitake mushrooms, hard boiled egg, daikon and carrots in a dashi broth ($3). Pair this with a plate of Hae Bee Hiam Rice ($3) to meet your daily carb requirements.

Don’t forget to try the Spicy Sesame Tofu with Spinach ($2)- served cold. You’ll love this refreshing side dish that is great for Singapore’s sweltering heat.

6. The Good Beer Company @ Chinatown Complex (Craft beers)

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Yes, beers count as a cuisine. Especially when it comes to the huge variety of craft beers, which The Good Beer Company serves up at its humble hawker stall. With over 50 different types of beers and ciders from all over the word, you will definitely be spoilt for choice!

Unfortunately, it’s not open for lunch. But why not swing by after a hard day’s work to chill out with your colleagues?

ADDRESS

335 Smith Street
Chinatown Complex Food Centre #02-58
Singapore 050335

OPENING HOURS

6pm – 10pm (Mon-Sat)
Closed on Sun

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[BONUS]  7. Ah Bong’s Italian @ Tiong Bahru

For those who don’t mind travelling a teensy bit  further or who work in the Tiong Bahru area, you’ve surely heard of Ah Bong’s Italian. This non-pretentious and simple eatery serves up super affordable Italian fare – where else can you get Basil Pesto Pasta or Squid Ink Pasta for just $7-$10?

We can’t give you the exact items/prices because their menu changes every single day. Guess you’ll just have to head down there to check it out yourself 😉 Trust us, it is definitely worth the extra distance.

ADDRESS

56 Eng Hoon St
#01-46
Singapore 169793

OPENING HOURS

10am – 2pm (Daily)